Sriharikota: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for its next major mission in 2024, with the launch of the new meteorological satellite INSAT-3DS on February 17.
It will be launched with the GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS mission set for lift-off at 5.30 pm from SDSC-SHAR, Sriharikota. This will be ISRO’s second launch in the current calendar after the successful launch of XPoSAT from Sriharikota on January 1 in PSLV’s 60th flight.
Fully funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), the INSAT-3DS satellite is a follow-on mission of a third-generation meteorological satellite to be placed in the geostationary orbit.
The upcoming satellite will occupy a geostationary orbit at an altitude of approximately 35,786 kilometres, positioned at 82 degrees East longitude.
It is equipped with advanced meteorological instruments, including a six-channel Imager and an Infrared Sounder, which are pivotal for monitoring weather patterns, detecting cyclones, and aiding communication during natural calamities.
ISRO’s latest venture is expected to significantly contribute to the nation’s meteorological imaging and data relay capabilities. The launch window for the GSLV-F14 mission extends from February 17 to March 17, as per the latest Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) issued by the space agency.
The mission promises to bolster India’s infrastructure for weather monitoring and disaster preparedness, ensuring that the country remains at the forefront of space technology applications for societal benefits.
